For nearly two decades, the Toyota HiLux has dominated Australian roads with an unbreakable reputation — from tradie toolboxes to outback tracks, it has been the go-to ute for reliability, ruggedness, and real-world toughness. But even legends must adapt. As we await for the next-generation Toyota HiLux to premier in 2026, reports have emerged that there may be an all-new hybrid option on the cards.
Reports from Japan now suggest that the next-generation Toyota HiLux could feature a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant. If confirmed, it would mark the first time the Toyota HiLux features a proper hybrid setup and unlike the one found in Toyota’s top-selling hybrids. If offered in Australia as well, the all-new HiLux hybrid will go head-to-head with electrified rivals like the BYD Shark 6, Ford Ranger PHEV, and GWM Cannon Alpha.
Plug-in power meets diesel muscle
According to the Japanese outlet Best Car, the upcoming Toyota HiLux will offer a PHEV drivetrain in addition to conventional turbo-diesel options. However, details are sparse, including whether the hybrid will be petrol or diesel-based, but the publication hints that this electrified variant will arrive later in the model’s lifecycle.
From mild-hybrid to multi-powertrain future
The Toyota HiLux has already taken a step toward electrification with 48-volt mild-hybrid systems with the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine. It is designed to improve fuel efficiency without altering the driving experience of the ute. Unlike Toyota’s self-charging hybrids in passenger cars, the Toyota HiLux’s mild-hybrid system assists the engine during acceleration and shuts it off at idle — but doesn’t power the wheels on its own.
The future, however, could be far more diverse. Best Car speculates that battery-electric and hydrogen fuel-cell variants are also on the table. Toyota has tested both technologies on current-gen HiLux prototypes — including an electric single-cab version trialled in Thailand and hydrogen-powered concepts showcased internationally.
Toyota has also confirmed that an electric HiLux or HiLux-based pickup will launch in Europe by 2027.
GA-F platform: New bones, familiar brawn
Underpinning the next-generation Toyota HiLux will be the GA-F body-on-frame platform, shared with bigger siblings like the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series and new Prado. This architecture not only strengthens the ute’s off-road and towing credentials but also makes room for electrified drivetrains.
The current 2.4-litre and 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engines are expected to carry over, with the latter joined by a 48V mild-hybrid system. Meanwhile, the six-speed automatic gearbox will reportedly be replaced by an eight-speed unit, while maintaining a part-time 4WD system.
What to expect next?
Toyota hasn’t officially confirmed a PHEV version of the HiLux, but all signs point toward a significant leap forward for Australia’s best-selling ute. For instance, the Shark 6 PHEV ute allowed BYD to become the fifth best-selling brand in Australia in June 2025. With a full reveal likely in the coming months and a 2026 launch on the cards, the Toyota HiLux may soon blend its proven diesel durability with the added efficiency and torque of electrified technology.
Final thoughts
The next-generation Toyota HiLux isn’t just shaping up to be tougher, it could be smarter and more sustainable too. With electric variants on the horizon and a new platform to future-proof its performance, the 2026 Toyota HiLux may represent the most significant leap in the model’s history.
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